I’ma do me! I’mma do me! I’mma do me! You just do you – I’mma do me! I’mma do me! I’mma do me! – Rocko, “Song of Umma Do Me 1:1”
Self-care isn’t selfish. Yes, you read the title right! Contrary to what people think, self-care isn’t selfish. Most people put themselves on the backburner while meeting others needs and before you know it you’re mentally, physically, and sometimes even spiritually drained. That’s the moment (actually it should be before that moment to be honest) when you owe it to yourself to put YOU first. Now if you’re self-centered and your focus is strictly on you all of the time, NEWSFLASH… You’re selfish and this post isn’t for you and you may want to get some professional help to guide you in getting to the root cause of that.
Now for those of you that are finally deciding to prioritize yourself, it’s officially time to take a page from the book of Umma Do Me, and just do you. I found some good tips from the folks over at Best Life that inspired me to share with you ways to help you get started with some self-care activities.
1. Date yourself.
The expected price of a date has gone up to at least $200 or more according to the delusional forward thinking people on Twitter. If you’re going to spend that type of money on a date then you can certainly enjoy a day (or night) out treating yourself to some of the finer things. Go ahead an wine and dine yourself. Contrary to popular belief there is nothing weird about doing things solo and having a good time. It’s actually quite peaceful to be honest. If you haven’t already, give it a try.
2. Relax & just vibe.
Schedule some time to be alone and just chill. You can grab a good book to read, catch a show, listen to some music or whatever you’re interested in to help you wind down and de-stress. Make sure to grab the Relax & Just Vibe candle to accompany the mood.
3. Celebrate your wins.
Whether it’s something small such as committing to getting 8 hours of sleep or as big as landing that new job, celebrate your victories. The more that you focus on the your accomplishments the more that you will increase positive self praise.
4. Take time off.
Allow me to write this message to myself while you read along. Weekends aren’t long enough and sometimes you just need an extra day or two. Sometimes you wake up and don’t feel like doing anything because mentally you’re not focused and you want to go back to sleep. Use a day. That’s what you have time available for. Work will be there when you get back and they will certainly figure anything out while you’re away.
5. Speak positive affirmations.
Listen, the money won’t reside where you are if you aren’t speaking it. Ok, ok, ok! Words have power so don’t short circuit what you’re believing for by speaking words of negativity. Positive words only.
6. Eat the cake, Anna Mae.
If you’re on the Dr. Now 2,000 calorie intake diet please skip this step because he doesn’t have time for these games. Otherwise, forget about calories for once. Pick a day to indulge in having either your favorite slice of cake, pie or cookies and add a big scoop of ice cream and enjoy. You’ll be amazed at how good you feel after having a sweet treat.
7. Have some fun.
Whether it’s spending time with loved ones, going for a bike ride, taking a swim, heading to an amusement park, checking out a concert, etc., make sure to do something that you enjoy and that makes you happy.
8. Laughter is good for the soul.
Having a stressful day? Pull out a good comedy and get your laugh on. I guarantee that you’ll feel a bit better. Laughter truly is the best medicine.
9. Put your phone on airplane mode.
Unplugging yourself from distractions is much needed. Take this quiet time to meditate, pray, exercise, etc., to realign yourself mentally, physically and spiritually.
10. Take a chance and do something new.
Try that new food. Switch up your look. Take that class. Change up your routine some. You might just find something different that you love.
Hopefully this list has provided you with some ideas that you’re looking forward to adding to your repertoire. Remember that self-care isn’t selfish and totally is a form of self-love. Take care!